Whakaari / White Island

White Island is a marine volcano accessible by boat and helicopter located 48km offshore in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty.

Helicopters of 5 operators take tours to White Island. Flights depart from bases in Whakatane, Rotorua, Treetops Estate, Taupo, Tauranga, Auckland or from the location you arrange.

Boat tours depart from Whakatane harbour.A shuttle bus is also available to provide return transfers for visitors from both Rotorua and Tauranga.

White Island - an active volcano

White Island is an active andesite volcano of which just 10% is visible above the sea. Formed primarily about 900,00 years ago the crater which you can tour is the smaller of what were originally two craters. Whilst there have been periods of heightened activity, eruptions are rare. However as in any location where magma comes close to the earth's surface, eruptions can occur and without warning. The island is continually monitored by IGNS (Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences) and ease of access to the crater makes it an ideal location for volcanic study and research.